State agencies, National Grid say they’re ready for October Nor’easter

October 26, 2018 11:52 pm

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Officials are focused on two big potential impacts from Saturday’s October Nor’easter–power outages and flooding.

The parking lot at CCRI in Providence was transformed Friday night into a staging area for National Grid. By daybreak Saturday it was expected to be full of line crews ready to respond to outages.

“We’re in a good spot. we’re well prepared for this,” said National Grid spokesman Ted Kresse.

National Grid has brought in 120 crews from out of state and Canada to help its 60 Rhode Island crews restore power.

“We’re going to see what Mother Nature brings and we’ll be ready to take care of it when it does happen,” said Kresse.

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation anticipates street flooding Saturday. On Friday their crews cleared out storm drains clogged with leaves.

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency has set up mobile command posts and called in extra staff. But officials are asking residents to do their part, too.

“Check on your elderly population, check on friends and family, have a communications plan in place. Know where everybody is,” said Marc Pappas of the Rhode Island EMA.

The storm is already impacting Halloween festivities. The Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular in Roger Williams Park has been canceled for Saturday.
THE STORM…

“This would have been our second-busiest Saturday,” said director of operations Ron Patalano Friday night. “It just wouldn’t be a good experience for the guests tomorrow night.”

Patalano says they’ll tie all the pumpkins down, and gear up for an even bigger show on Sunday.

“We’re open all week, through next Sunday, so they still have plenty of time to come experience the show,” said Patalano.

So what should you do to make sure you’re prepared for the storm? Officials advise making sure your phone is fully charged in case you lose power. It’s also a good idea to stock up on non-perishable food and water just in case. Also remove any lawn ornaments or objects from your yard that could blow around in those gusty winds.